Removal of papillomas – in brief
| What is being removed | Soft hanging fibroids (skin tags) on the neck, in the armpits, groins, under the breasts and on the eyelids |
|---|---|
| Method | Radio waves |
| Anaesthesia | Local, according to the size and position of the lesion |
| Duration of the procedure | A few minutes per change; multiple changes require a longer appointment |
| Examination | Dermatological examination confirming the type of lesion |
| Estimation based on photograph | Approximate pricing information is possible based on a photograph sent via Viber or WhatsApp at 064 237 0707 |
What are papillomas and how do they differ from warts?
On this page, we use the term “papillomas” for soft, hanging skin growths also known as soft fibromas or acrochordons. They most frequently appear on the neck and in skin folds and are different from viral warts, although patients sometimes call them by similar names.
Soft fibromas can be skin-coloured or darker, they are usually tiny and are frequently attached to the skin by a narrow stalk. They occur equally in men and women, and are more common in areas where the skin chafes: on the neck, in the armpits, groin, and beneath the breasts. By themselves they do not cause problems, but they can become sensitive or painful when irritated.
They may look similar verrucas and seborrhoeic keratosis, which are other types of lesion and are treated differently. Therefore, the type of lesion and the removal method are determined after an examination.
Why do they occur?
The exact cause of soft fibromas is unknown. They occur more frequently in areas where the skin rubs, with age, during pregnancy, in overweight individuals, and in cases of blood sugar regulation disorders, such as insulin resistance. There is also research regarding the potential role of the human papillomavirus, but findings are not conclusive, so soft fibromas are not considered to be viral lesions.
The propensity to develop them is individual. In people who already have them, new blemishes may appear even after the removal of existing ones, in the same or different places.
When does removal make sense?
Removal is considered when the lesion catches on clothing or jewellery, becomes irritated when shaving, is frequently injured, or is a cosmetic nuisance. If it causes no trouble, the decision is made after an examination and a consultation with a dermatologist.
A check-up is also necessary when a lesion changes, grows, changes colour, bleeds or itches, because appearance alone is not enough to rule out other types of lesions.
What does radiowave removal look like?
First, there is dermatologist appointment, which confirms the type of change and agrees the scope of the procedure. Then the skin is prepared and, when necessary, a local anaesthetic is administered, after which time is allowed for it to take effect.
The lesion is removed using a radiofrequency instrument, which simultaneously seals tiny blood vessels, so bleeding is minimal. During the procedure, with local anaesthesia, a touch or pressure is felt. Removing a single small lesion takes a few minutes, while removing a larger number of lesions takes longer. In addition to papillomas, radiofrequency is also used to remove keratoses, fibromas and xanthelasma.
Finally, the treated site is dressed, bandaged if necessary, and the patient is given instructions on cleansing, skin protection and any follow-up visits. When the appearance of the lesion is atypical, the removed tissue may be sent for histopathological analysis.
Regional removal
Papillomas most commonly occur in areas where the skin rubs, and the region affects the course of the procedure and the post-care.
| Region | What is being paid attention to |
|---|---|
| Neck | Changes catch on collars, scarves and jewellery, so after removal those areas are protected from friction. |
| Armpit | The skin sweats and rubs; when you continue with shaving and deodorant, the dermatologist says during an examination. |
| Under the breasts and groin | Friction and moisture slow down healing, so dry and breathable clothing is important. |
| Eyelids | Because of the proximity to the eye, the exact position and size of the lesion are assessed and only then is the procedure chosen. |
Multiple lesions can be removed during a single visit, when the doctor deems it appropriate. The extent depends on the number and size of the lesions, the region, and the state of health, and for a larger number of lesions, multiple appointments can be arranged.
Recovery and aftercare following removal
After removal, a small treated area remains which gradually heals. The appearance of the skin and the duration of recovery depend on the size of the lesion, the depth of the procedure and the region, so the doctor gives instructions according to the specific procedure.
The treated area is cleaned and protected according to the instructions provided, and scabs must not be removed or picked. It is advisable to avoid friction from clothing and jewellery, and the dermatologist will advise at your check-up when you can resume shaving, using cosmetics, deodorants, swimming and going to the gym. Sun protection helps to prevent the treated area from darkening.
If the pain or redness increases, or if discharge or swelling appears, you should contact the polyclinic for an evaluation.
Does it leave a mark?
The aim is the neatest possible healing. After minor lesions, the mark is usually barely visible, and a temporary change in skin colour—lighter or darker—is possible, which fades over time. With larger or deeper lesions, a small scar may remain.
The appearance of the results depends on the change itself, the chosen method, the region and individual healing, so expectations are agreed upon during the consultation. Sun protection during the healing period reduces the risk of a darker mark.
What to tell the doctor before the procedure?
Before the procedure, it is important to inform the doctor about any implanted medical devices, current medication, allergies, pregnancy, and medical conditions that may affect the performance of the procedure or healing. Based on this information, the doctor assesses whether the procedure can be performed immediately, whether it is better to postpone it, or whether to choose an alternative method.
The procedure is postponed in the event of a skin infection or inflammation at the removal site and in acute illnesses. In pregnant women, when the lesion does not cause discomfort, the period after childbirth is usually awaited.
Papilloma removal price
The price depends on the number, size and localisation of the lesions, so the removal of a single papilloma differs from the treatment when there is a larger number of lesions in the same region. Prices can be found in dermatology price list. A photograph of the change can be sent via Viber or WhatsApp N/A 064 237 0707, providing tentative price information, while the final assessment and choice of method are carried out during the examination.
Frequently asked questions about skin tag removal
Are papillomas the same as viral warts?
No. Papillomas, or soft fibromas, are soft, hanging growths that most frequently appear in areas where the skin chafes. Viral warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, look different and are removed differently, about which you can read more on the page wart removal.
Is removal painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia when needed, so during the removal you will feel touch or pressure rather than pain. The anaesthetic injection itself stings briefly. After the procedure, the treated area may remain sensitive for a few days.
Can multiple changes be removed at once?
Yes, when the doctor considers it appropriate. The number of lesions removed in a single visit depends on their size, the area of the body and the health status, and for a larger number of lesions, the treatment is sometimes split over multiple appointments.
How long does healing take?
It depends on the size of the change, the depth of the procedure, and the region. Minor changes heal faster, while areas exposed to friction and sweating, such as the armpits and groin, usually take longer. The exact timeframe is given by the doctor after the procedure.
Can it leave a mark?
After minor changes, the mark is usually barely visible. A temporary change in skin pigmentation that fades over time is possible, and with larger changes, a small scar may remain. Sun protection during the healing period reduces the risk of a darker mark.
Can new changes appear?
It is possible. Removal resolves the existing lesion, but the tendency to form new ones remains, so new lesions may appear in the same or other places. They are removed in the same way, when they begin to bother you.
When can I shave and use deodorant?
The doctor decides this depending on the region and the size of the procedure. Until the treated area heals, shaving and skin-irritating products on that area should be avoided.
Can I send the photograph before arriving?
You can. A clear photograph, taken in good lighting and from multiple angles, can be sent via Viber or WhatsApp to 064 237 0707, for preliminary information regarding the procedure and price. The final estimate is made after an examination.
Schedule the removal of skin tags in Belgrade
The Imedic Polyclinic is located at Kneza Miloša 23 street, 2nd floor, Belgrade. Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 9:00–21:00.
Appointments are made by phone: 064 237 0707. If you contact us from abroad, we are also available via Viber and WhatsApp on the same number.
Author: Dr Ivica Jeremić
Doctor of Medical Sciences (Molecular Medicine and Immunology), subspecialist in rheumatology, dermatology resident.
Updated:
Expert sources
- DermNet Skin tags (acrochordons).
- American Academy of Dermatology How to safely treat skin tags.
- Skin Tags (Acrochordon). StatPearls, NCBI Bookshelf.
